Justin Girardin Santenay Blanc Les Terrasses de Bievaux

On the northern heights of Santenay, we find the Terrasses de Bievaux. In 1986, Justin's grandfather planted vines on this steep hill, a rare site in Burgundy. The hill is terraced and divided into six small plots. The terroir is perfect for Chardonnay. The soil is thin and covered with limestone marl; the nearby forests create a refreshing microclimate. Because it is terraced, the southwest-facing effect is stronger, giving the wine structure and concentration. Downhill, the soil is clayier, suitable for red wines from a village AOC. In short, it is the perfect harmony between the mineral freshness of the soil and the powerful aromas provided by the location; with volume on the palate.

Chardonnay grapes from the beautiful valley Blanc Les Terrasses de Bievaux

The Girardin family business was founded in 1570 and is now in its 13th generation. The winery owns 17 hectares of vineyards, the vast majority of which are located in Santenay. The goal is to grow healthy grapes on healthy land. Bievaux means "beautiful valley," and the vineyard was planted in the 1960s and then completely replanted in 1970 and 1986. The vines are 35 years old, and the grapes are harvested entirely by hand. The grapes are pressed immediately upon arrival at the winery. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 10 degrees Celsius. Only natural yeasts are used. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 15 percent of which are new. The wine is aged on its own yeast cells, which adds extra creaminess and complexity.

Enjoy a creamy Chardonnay from Justin Girardin

With its golden yellow color, this Santenay Blanc Les Terrasses de Bievaux sparkles in the glass. The nose surprises with aromas of orange peel, lemon peel, peach, apricot, apple, and white flowers. Fruity with floral notes on the palate. Wonderfully creamy thanks to the oak aging. Deliciously refreshing and therefore perfect with scallops.